Panasonic Lumix SZ7, SZ1, FH and S-Series Compacts Announced

Panasonic launches a class of five new point-and-shoots for CES 2012. At the top end, the Lumix DMC-SZ7 features a 10x optical zoom lens and 1080 HD video while the FH series continues to offer a stylish alternative.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7

Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7, Lumix DMD-SZ1The compact travel zoom SZ7 and SZ1 both offer a 10x optical zoom lens starting at a 25mm wide angle. The SZ7 has a 14.1 megapixel sensor and 1080 HD video recording while the SZ1 offers a 16.1 megapixel CCD and 720p HD video. Both feature a 3.0-inch LCD. The SZ7 features a 3D Photo Mode that will capture 20 images and create a composite 3D images.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8, Lumix DMC-FH6The slimmer FH8 and FH6 both offer 720p HD video recording, 5x optical zoom lenses with f/2.5 maximum aperture and a 24mm wide angle. Differentiating the FH8 is a 16.1 megapixel sensor, the ability to record MP4 video and the inclusion of a dedicated video button. The FH8 offers a 3.0-inch LCD and the FH6 has a 2.7-inch display.

Pricing and availabilityTrue to form Panasonic announces no prices with the Lumix camera launches today. Pricing and availability will be announced 30 days before the cameras become available to the consumer market.